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Pau Gasol thinks Carmelo Anthony did something even more important than winning an NBA title in his career

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Bergas Agung | Last updated Sep 6, 2025 1:00 PM ET

One of the biggest ‘what ifs’ in Carmelo Anthony’s career remains the NBA title.

Carmelo Anthony enjoyed a stellar career with 10 All-Star selections, six All-NBA honors, and one scoring championship.

However, Anthony never won a championship or even reached the Finals. His furthest playoff achievement came with the Denver Nuggets in the 2009 Conference Finals.

He is considered one of the best players never to win a championship ring, alongside Chris Paul , Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, and James Harden.

Photo By Andy Cross/The Denver Post via Getty Images

Pau Gasol defends Carmelo Anthony, says multiple factors beyond an individual’s control contribute to championship success

Former Lakers champion Pau Gasol recently praised Anthony’s career accomplishments beyond NBA titles.

The two-time champion highlighted Anthony’s USA Basketball legacy, including three Olympic Gold Medals that demonstrate his winning ability on basketball’s biggest international stage.

“Winning a championship, there are so many factors that kind of come together. There are a lot of all-time greats who haven’t won a championship. I don’t think that’s something that should define you,” Gasol explained.

Gasol’s perspective reflects the reality that championship success often depends on circumstances beyond individual talent. Team construction, timing, injuries, and organizational decisions all influence championship opportunities.

The Spanish legend emphasized Anthony’s broader contributions to basketball rather than focusing solely on NBA postseason shortcomings.

“It’s everything that you’ve given and performed and contributed to the game. Melo is one of those players who has done so much on the basketball court and off the basketball court as well,” Gasol continued.

Carmelo Anthony’s USA Basketball commitment showcases championship mentality

Gasol specifically highlighted Anthony’s international success as evidence of his winning capabilities and team-first approach when the stakes were highest.

“I think he’s left a really good legacy as a basketball player. And to me, I think his commitment to the USA basketball team is also something that I value a lot,” Gasol said.

“How he performed and came through all in all those championships for his team and his country. So that to me is just as important or even more than winning an NBA championship.”

Anthony demonstrated consistency as a scorer throughout his career while showing willingness to adapt his style to help teams win.

His Hall of Fame credentials and potential jersey retirements reflect a legacy that transcends championship rings.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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